Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
Turpan
Warning: Risk areaThe notebook of Turpan
Let the terrain write the route.
Extremely hot oasis where towns of land, vineyards and underground canals tell the ways of Silk.
At your own pace
Identity summary
2 to 5 days
Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
Recommended car
City · Desert · Heritage · Countryside
Good accessibility
Sweet rhythm
General presentation
Turpan
Extremely hot oasis where towns of land, vineyards and underground canals tell the ways of Silk.
Ruins of Jiaohe, Flamboyant Mountains and Karez System give the most telling landmarks of Turpan. Together, they form a destination where urban life, desert areas, heritage and the countryside meet, with atmospheres that change over the stages rather than just one uniform decor.
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For a stay of 2 to 5 days, a quiet rhythm works well. Also to be anticipated: variable influx depending on the season. A car is usually the easiest way to connect different sectors. The main sites are generally easy to access.
Strengths and constraints
Strengths
- Ruins of Jiaohe
- Flaming Mountains
- Système de karez
Before you choose
- Variable frequency depending on season
- Parking to anticipate in the center
Places worth visiting
A selection to start dreaming and organizing the stay — not an exhaustive list of everything there is to see.
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Ruines de Jiaohe
Jiaohe occupies a natural plateau between two ravines, covered with streets and buildings carved in the earth. The site is exposed without shadow; morning or end of the day allow a more comfortable reading of the ruins.
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Montagnes Flamboyantes
The Montagnes Flamboyantes show deep ravinate red strata north of the basin of Turpan Summer heat is dangerous and tourist complexes do not replace water or sun protection.
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Système de karez
The karez drive water from the mountains to the oasis by underground galleries limiting evaporation. Museums and accessible sections explain this old infrastructure without it being possible to explore freely the network still used.
Practical tips
This information helps know if the destination matches the planned trip before starting a fuller search.
To go further
More activities
Restaurants, walks, culture, leisure and outings to search without leaving the destination card.
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The closest ideas on the map, to extend your trip.
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